Blaine is a small city on the Canadian border in Whatcom County, known for Semiahmoo Spit, Peace Arch State Park, and its residential neighborhoods. Sheds under 200 square feet are exempt from a building permit under the IRC as adopted by Blaine (BMC 15.04). The city has its own zoning code with a 20-foot front setback and residential design standards. If your property is outside Blaine city limits, Whatcom County rules apply instead. Here's what the Blaine Municipal Code says.
| Shed Permit Rules | City of Blaine |
|---|---|
| Max Shed Size (No Permit) | 200 sq ft (one-story, per IRC as adopted in BMC 15.04) |
| Max Shed Height (Overall) | Per zoning district — accessory structures typically limited to one story* |
| Setbacks (Side/Rear) | Per zoning district (BMC 17.32) |
| Setbacks (Front) | 20 ft from street right-of-way |
*Blaine's accessory structure height is governed by zoning district regulations. Contact Blaine Community Development Services (360-332-8311) for your specific zone's height limits.
“The City of Blaine adopts the International Building Code and International Residential Code as amended by the State of Washington, including permit exemptions for one-story detached accessory structures not exceeding 200 square feet.”
BMC 15.04 — Building Code Adoption →
Have questions about permits or zoning? We don't have all the answers, but we deal with this stuff regularly and can usually help you figure it out. Reach out with your address and we'll point you in the right direction.
Building codes and permit requirements are subject to change. Contact your local building department to verify current regulations before beginning your project.
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